Browse through our Interesting Nodes on Academic Institutions in Greece Read the Convention Relating to the Regime of the Straits (24 July 1923) Read the Convention Relating to the Regime of the Straits (24 July 1923)
HR-Net - Hellenic Resources Network Compact version
Today's Suggestion
Read The "Macedonian Question" (by Maria Nystazopoulou-Pelekidou)
HomeAbout HR-NetNewsWeb SitesDocumentsOnline HelpUsage InformationContact us
Sunday, 24 November 2024
 
News
  Latest News (All)
     From Greece
     From Cyprus
     From Europe
     From Balkans
     From Turkey
     From USA
  Announcements
  World Press
  News Archives
Web Sites
  Hosted
  Mirrored
  Interesting Nodes
Documents
  Special Topics
  Treaties, Conventions
  Constitutions
  U.S. Agencies
  Cyprus Problem
  Other
Services
  Personal NewsPaper
  Greek Fonts
  Tools
  F.A.Q.
 

Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-08-25

Anadolu Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

From: The Anadolu Agency Home Page at <http://www.anadoluajansi.gov.tr/>

AA Daily

25 August 1999 Wednesday


CONTENTS

  • [01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN
  • [02] DUTCH AID TO DISASTER AREA
  • [03] GERMAN AID TO DISASTER AREA
  • [04] U.S. AID TO DISASTER AREA
  • [05] AUSTRIAN AID TO DISASTER AREA
  • [06] FRENCH PEOPLE ARE ASSIGNED IN YALOVA, MALAYSIANS IN GOLCUK, AND SPANISH IN SAKARYA
  • [07] GAZI UNIVERSITY TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL AID TO STUDENTS WHO FACE QUAKE DISASTER
  • [08] A TOTAL OF 35 FAMILIES FROM DISASTER ZONE SETTLED IN CENTRAL ANATOLIAN KONYA PROVINCE
  • [09] FOLEY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE SPOKESMAN: - ''WE ARE DISCUSSING THE MEDIUM AND LONG TERM MEASURES FOR TURKEY WITH OUR CONGRESS AND ALLIES''
  • [10] PREMIERSHIP CRISIS CENTER STATEMENT: ''ENERGY GIVEN TO ALL TENT SITES SET UP SAKARYA AND YARIMCA''
  • [11] LOGAN, BRITISH AMBASSADOR TO ANKARA, AND BRITISH DELEGATION VISITS GEMICI, STATE MINISTER
  • [12] A TOTAL OF 545 PEOPLE, INCLUDING ONE VICE ADMIRAL, 27 OFFICERS, 120 NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS, SIX EXPERT SOLDIERS, 77 SOLDIERS, TWO MILITARY STUDENTS DIED IN QUAKE - 96 TSK MEMBERS STILL UNDER DEBRIS
  • [13] U.S. TO SEND THREE MORE WARSHIPS TO TURKEY
  • [14] FOREIGN AID TO DISASTER AREA
  • [15] MAYOR OF ATHENS AVRAMOPOULOS ARRIVES IN ISTANBUL
  • [16] HALONEN, FINNISH FOREIGN MINISTER, AND VAN DEN BROEK, MEMBER OF EUROPEAN COMMISSION, DUE IN TURKEY
  • [17] STATEMENT OF PARRIS, THE U.S. AMBASSADOR TO TURKEY, TO PBS TELEVISION CHANNEL: - ''THIS WAS PROBABLY THE WORST EARTHQUAKE IN THE HISTORY OF EUROPE IN THIS CENTURY. - ''IT IS HARD TO SUGGEST THAT ANY GOVERNMENT WOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE IN FLAWLESS MANNER TO MEET ALL OF THE NEEDS REQUIRED AS EFFICIENTY ANYONE WOULD LIKE''
  • [18] CALL OF OCALAN, HEAD OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION - ILLEGAL KSP, SENDS AN ANNOUNCEMENT TO SEVERAL PRESS-INFORMATION ORGANS, SAYING CALL OF OCALAN MEANS ''COLLAPSE OF PKK''
  • [19] FM CEM ADDRESSES TO AL KABAS: - ''THAT SYRIA IS GETTING CLOSER TO TURKEY, HAS INCREASED INTERNATIONAL ESTEEM OF THIS COUNTRY'' - ''DIALOGUE WITH GREECE HAS GONE WELL UNTIL NOW''
  • [20] EUROPEAN UNION TO CREATE ACTION PLAN FOR TURKEY
  • [21] AID CAMPAIGNS IN TRNC
  • [22] FISCHER, FM OF GERMANY: ''THE EU HAS TO BE GENEROUS IN ITS AID TO TURKEY''
  • [23] AUSTRALIAN RADIO CHANNEL COLLECTS MORE THAN ONE MILLION US DOLLARS FOR QUAKE VICTIMS
  • [24] U.S. HBO TV CHANNEL TO BROADCAST MIDNIGHT EXPRESS AGAIN
  • [25] UNICEF CONTINUES TO SEND HUMANITARIAN AID TO TURKEY
  • [26] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ATTENDS CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER'S MEETING (1) - ''OUR BIGGEST INSUFFICIENCY WAS THE LACK OF WELL TRAINED RESCUE TEAMS''
  • [27] TURKMENISTAN TO DISPATCH MEDICINE AND MEDICAL SUPPLIES
  • [28] U.S-CYPRUS - ERTUGRULOGLU, FOREIGN AND DEFENSE MINISTER OF TRNC, CRITICIZES U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON'S REPORT ON CYPRUS: - ''CONFEDERATION IS THE ONLY FORMULA OF COMPROMISE'' - ''THE U.S. HAS TO FOLLOW A NEW AND REALISTIC APPROACH INSTEAD OF STEREOTYPED APPROACHES''
  • [29] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ATTENDS CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER'S MEETING - ''IT'S UNDERSTOOD THAT CONSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT CONTROLLED WELL AND THIS ISSUE IS NOT TAKEN SERIOUSLY''
  • [30] KHARRAZI, IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: ''WE ARE READY TO SEND HUMANITARIAN AID TO TURKEY''
  • [31] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ATTENDS CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER'S MEETING - ECEVIT: ''A MORE EFFECTIVE COORDINATION IS NEEDED AMONG CONCERNED PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS''
  • [32] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''DIFFERENT IDEAS AND PROPOSALS ABOUT QUAKE TAX CAN BE PUT FORWARD, WE WILL EVALUATE THEM ALL''
  • [33] FOREIGN MINISTER CEM RETURNS TO TURKEY FROM KUWAIT - CEM: ''TURKEY WILL BENEFIT FROM KUWAITI FUND FOR INFRASTRUCTURAL WORK''
  • [34] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ADDRESSES TO FRENCH LE NOUVEL OBSERVATEUR NEWSPAPER: ''FINDING THOSE WHO ARE RESPONSIBLE IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE'' - ''I SUPPOSE DURMUS, HEALTH MINISTER USED A WRONG EXPRESSION''
  • [35] TURKISH AMBASSADOR TO AZERBAIJAN: ''AZERBAJANI RESCUE TEAM PULLED ALIVE MORE THAN 40 PERSONS FROM DEBRIS''

  • [01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

    These are some of the major headlines and their brief stories in Turkey's press on August 25, 1999. The Anadolu Ajansi does not verify these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.

    HURRIYET (LIBERAL)

    GREEK DELEGATION COMES TO TURKEY FOR CONDOLENCE
    A Greek delegation including five persons, came to Turkey to bring humanitarian aid for the survivors of the major quake. The delegation conveyed the condolence messages of the Greek nation and said that the Greek people felt great sorrow for the disaster. The delegation will carry out observations in the disaster zone.

    ONE MORE WARNING TO DURMUS, HEALTH MINISTER, FROM NSC
    The National Security Council (NSC) supported the AKUT and other non- governmental organizations which Osman Durmus, Health Minister, accused of ''making shows.'' A military member of the NSC said that these organizations are a matter of appreciation and that the negative stances which can demoralize them should be ended.

    MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

    A TOTAL OF 50 MILLION TLS TO BE DEDUCTED FROM CITIZENS WHO HAVE MOBILE
    PHONES FOR AID
    The earthquake tax worth of 2.4 quadrillion Turkish liras is on the way. A total of 50 million Turkish liras will be deducted from the citizens who have mobile phones to help the quake victims. Those who have a car and a house will pay a second tax. The Petroleum Consumption Tax will be increased from 300 percent to 500 percent.

    HEAVY RAINS TO CONTINUE
    The heavy rains which hampered the rescue operations in the disaster area and hit the quake victims, will continue until this weekend. The State Meteorology General Directorate said that the heavy rains will leave Turkey on August 27, 1999. All the disaster area will be rainy until Friday and the highest temperature will be 25 degrees Celcius.

    SABAH (LIBERAL)

    QUAKE MEASURING 4.7 SHAKES ANKARA
    An earthquake measuring 4.7 on the Richter scale shook Ankara. The epicenter of the quake was Haymana county and the quake hit Ankara twice in a four-minute interval. The tremors casued great panic among the residents of Ankara.

    ISRAEL TO RECONSTRUCT GOLCUK
    Israel will ''adopt'' Golcuk county. Israel decided to reconstruct Golcuk outside the fault line and will construct a thousand buildings. Israel will also reconstruct the infrastructure of new Golcuk from electricity and water to telephone.

    CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

    TAX IS THE HOPE OF GOVERNMENT
    The government which was late to extend help to the victims of quake in time, will put the heavy burden of the disaster on the people with the taxes which it plans to bring in every field of life. The government will bring new taxes in the fields extending from mobile phones to fuel oil, from property to engined-vehicles. The government targets to meet the loss caused by the quake which is approximately one third of the budget.

    ECEVIT SPEAKS TO CNN
    Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, speaking to CNN related with the quake disaster, accepted that the government made mistakes. Ecevit said they could not reach the region in the first two days of the quake yet noted that efforts continued effectively in the region now. Responding to a question if the government would resign, Ecevit said they did not want to halt state mechanism.

    RADIKAL (LEFT)

    AGAINST THE PEOPLE
    Devlet Bahceli, leader of Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) and Deputy Prime Minister, began to protect Osman Durmus, Minister of Health, after Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit. Bahceli said ''the ones who try to create gap in the rampart will not be successful. We are supporting Durmus, the health minister.'' Bahceli also called on deputies of the Motherland Party (ANAP), who critized Durmus, to be moderate. Meanwhile, MHP group applauded Durmus who was asked to resign by the people.

    TENT SITES BECOME MUD SITES
    Rescue efforts almost ended in quake region due to the heavy rainstorm in the region in the last two days. The tent sites, which is limited in number, and in which the victims of the quake sheltered, turned into a mud site because of rainstorm. Rescue efforts were halted due to the rain. Kemal Demir, Chairman of Red Crescent, accepted that the organization did not have adequate tents. The U.N. stated that priority should be given to sheltering needs in Turkey.

    TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)

    TIME COMES TO HAUL AWAY THE RUBBLE
    Efforts started in the region to haul away the rubble. A total of 1370 aftershocks recorded in the region since the massive earthquake. In provinces which were struck by the quake, 17,512 buildings are out of use. Yet, only 27,000 tents are set up.

    INDUSTRY GETS OUT FROM THE SHOCK
    Production re-starts in the quake zone. Bigger companies gradually re- activate in the region in which half of Turkey's industry production is realized.

    ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

    RECONSTRUCTION
    An organization which will immediately heal the wounds of the quake and make preparations for possible disasters should be established soon. We have experienced three massive quakes in the year 1990's, in Erzincan, Dinar, and in Adana. Yet, the latest quake proved that we did not take lessons from any of them. Thousands of people died, and the experts and officials listed the precautions. We have talked on them, but we did not do anything.

    QUAKE TAX IS COMING
    Finance Ministry initiated efforts to get an additional tax for once in order to help the victims of quake. Additional tax in various rates will be implemented.

    CALL OF TOBB: EVERY BUSINESSMAN SHOULD BUILD A HOUSE
    Fuat Miras, Chairman of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges (TOBB) called on every businessman to construct a house. TOBB Chairmanship Council convened in Izmit due to the quake and started the campaign with five trillion Turkish liras. Miras said: ''Our industry has protected itself. Yet, 95 percent of small and medium scale entrepreneurs have collapsed. Urgent measures should be taken to this end.''

    [02] DUTCH AID TO DISASTER AREA

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - The Foreign Ministry gave information about the aid sent by the Netherlands to the disaster area on Tuesday evening.

    The Foreign Ministry statement said that the Netherlands granted 759,000 Dutch Florin to the Dutch Red Cross after the International Red Cross Federation made an emergency call for the quake disaster in Turkey.

    The statement noted that the Dutch Red Cross granted five million Dutch Florin for the aid which is collected in cooperation with the Dutch and Turkish non-governmental organizations and Turkish-Dutch associations.

    The statement said, ''a search and rescue team from Dutch Sniffer Dogs organization, including nine experts and five sniffer dogs, arrived in Turkey on August 18, 1999 and started carrying out efforts in Sakarya. The team left Turkey on August 22, 1999.''

    The Foreign Ministry listed the planes which were sent by the Netherlands to Turkey as follows:

    -A plane rescue team arrived in Turkey on August 18, 1999.

    -A C-130 plane which carried fire extinguisher equipment, a translator and 12 tons of water arrived in Turkey to assist the efforts to put out the fire in Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corp. (TUPRAS) on August 19, 1999.

    -A KDC10 plane carrying 18 tons of humanitarian aid and 18 tons of water arrived in Turkey on August 20, 1999.

    -C-130 plane carrying pumping equipment for the cleaning of the soil in TUPRAS refinery arrived in Turkey on August 21 and KDC10 plane arrived on August 22 and C130 plane arrived on August 24, 1999.

    The statement stressed that the Netherlands sent 12 tons of water on August 19 and that a plane carrying 18 tons of humanitarian aid of the Dutch Red Cross, the generator, tents, first aid materials, blankets, medical materials arrived in Turkey on August 20, 1999.

    The statement said, ''a plane carrying 18 tons of water arrived in Turkey on August 20. Another plane carrying pumping equipment, 500 body bags, 1, 000 gloves arrived in Turkey on August 21, 1999.''

    The statement recalled that Jozias van Aartsen, Dutch Foreign Minister, visited the disaster zone on August 21, 1999 and that he had a meeting with Foreign Minister Ismail Cem.

    [03] GERMAN AID TO DISASTER AREA

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - The Foreign Ministry gave information about the German aid to Turkey on Tuesday evening.

    The Foreign Ministry statement said that the German Foreign Ministry hired two Antanov cargo ships to extinguish the fire in the Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corp. (TUPRAS) in cooperation with the Technisches Hifswerk company and participated in the efforts to put out the fire by two high technology products of German BASF chemistry company.

    The statement said, ''a German Red Cross Organization headed by a surgeon, and five search and rescue teams including nine sniffer dogs and 11 experts to the disaster area. The Red Cross organization sent medical devices, medicines, anelgesics, blood preparation, and blankets to Izmit to treat the injured people. Moreover, the mobile hospital of the Red Cross which was in Skopje and two ambulances were sent to the region.''

    The statement noted that the German search and rescue team consisted of 64 persons including rescue experts, doctors, assistant medical personnel, and experts who can find the place of the injured people under the rubble, and sniffer dogs.

    The Ministry statement listed the other aid of Germany to Turkey as follows:

    ''The Johanniter aid organization sent search and rescue teams including six sniffer dogs and eight experts, 30 big tents, blankets, medical aid materials, blood preparations and potable water plastic barrels to Izmit.

    Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund aid organization sent search and rescue teams including ten sniffer dogs and ten experts. This organization will also send medicines to the disaster area.

    The Federal Union of Training the Sniffer Dogs sent ten sniffer dog teams to Izmit to assist the search and rescue operations.

    The Humedica organization carries out first aid in the disaster area and plans sending blankets and food to the region.

    The Caritas International and Deakonisches Werk organizations are trying to help the survivors by distributing food, clothes, and blankets in the region in cooperation with Anadolu Development Fund.

    The Technisches Hifswerk organization sent an observation team including three persons to determine the scope of the humanitarian first aid project which will be carried out following the rescue operations.

    The three-member expert team from Geological Resarch Center is carrying out observations in the disaster area to find out the reasons of the major earthquake.

    The Hessen state sent sniffer dogs and electronic scanners to the region.

    The Rheinland-Pfalz state government granted 100,000 German marks to the disaster area to be used by the efforts of the German Red Cross and the technical aid organizations.

    The Bonn municipality granted 50,000 German marks to Technisches Hifswerk organization to be used in the first aid measures for the sister city Yalova.''

    Stressing that 10 tons of medicines and first aid materials sent by the German Federal Army reached Turkey, the statement stated that the aid was delivered to the crisis desk at the Ataturk Airport of Istanbul.

    Noting that the total aid of the German public institutions and the aid organizations reached 3 million German marks, the statement stressed that this aid is expected to exceed ten million German marks by the end of this week when the costs of the rescue teams, the transportation of the materials and the personnel are added.

    The statement added that many other municipalities, charities, and private institutions in Germany collected aid for the quake victims in Turkey.

    [04] U.S. AID TO DISASTER AREA

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - The Foreign Ministry gave information about the aid that the U.S. sent to Turkey since 11.50 a.m. on August 24, 1999; it was reported on Tuesday evening.

    The Foreign Ministry statement said that the U.S. damage assessment team including four persons arrived in Turkey on August 18, 1999 and that a U.S. water and hygiene engineer arrived in the region on August 20, 1999.

    Emphasizing that the U.S. granted 25,000 U.S. dollars to the Red Crescent at the very first moment, the statement noted that two U.S. search and rescue teams, including 148 personnel, are carrying out efforts in Izmit and Golcuk.

    Stressing that a three-member medical aid team joined the 24-member NAVEUR Surgical Intervention Team which started activities in Izmit stadium, the statement emphasized that the U.S. sent 10,000 blankets, medical materials, plastics coverings to Turkey.

    The statement added that the U.S. planned to send three water purification devices which have a capacity to meet the needs of 10,000 persons, to the region.

    Noting that a U.S. team including 16 medical experts and engineers went from Incirlik Base in Adana to the disaster area and that this team still carries out efforts in the region, the statement said that three ships carrying 2,100 sailors, 22 helicopters, 631 beds, six operating rooms, five X-ray units, eight doctors and 88 health personnel were sent to Turkey.

    The statement said, ''10,000 surgeon gloves and masks were delivered to the Red Crescent. A total of 2,340 tents from Greece and Albania are expected to reach the region in the shortest time.''

    [05] AUSTRIAN AID TO DISASTER AREA

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - The Foreign Ministry gave information about the aid which Austria sent to the disaster area on Tuesday evening.

    The Foreign Ministry statement said that the Austrian aid to Turkey continues and that Vienna sent medicines worth of 200,000 Austrian Shilling to the disaster area; adding that Vienna launched a monetary aid including six million Austrian Shilling which was allocated as aid from the budget of the Federal Government.

    Emphasizing that the Austrian companies in Turkey also participates in the aid campaigns, the statement noted that VA TECH company granted one million Austrian Shilling and that a water purification device was sent to Izmit.

    The statement said, ''the workers who are employed in Cayirhan energy power plant collected 40,000 Shilling and delivered them to the Austrian Embassy. The Embassy carries out efforts to send aid to the region by using this money.''

    The statement listed the Austrian aid to Turkey as of 3.00 p.m. on August 23, 1999:
    -A 19-member team from the Austrian Red Cross including 16 sniffer dogs and medical materials arrived in Turkey on August 17, 1999.

    -A plane carrying 65 soldiers from Austrian Armed Forces Disaster Rescue Unit, two research teams, one medical unit, one supply unit, three sniffer dogs unit arrived in Turkey on August 18, 1999. The teams carried out efforts in Yalova.

    -A Hercules C130 plane carrying 25 tons of rescue equipment and 35 tons of other equipment for the Austrian Army Union which participated in the rescue operations, arrived in Turkey on August 18, 1999.

    -The International Sniffer Dogs' Organization including 30 personnel and 20 sniffer dogs, arrived in Turkey on August 18, 1999 and carried out efforts to help the Austrian Army in Yalova.

    -The humanitarian aid including gloves, masks and body bags which Turkish government demanded, arrived in Istanbul on August 20, 1999.

    -The team including 30 personnel and 29 sniffer dogs from Austrian Bergwatch organization arrived in Istanbul on August 20, 1999. The team still carries out efforts in Yalova.

    [06] FRENCH PEOPLE ARE ASSIGNED IN YALOVA, MALAYSIANS IN GOLCUK, AND SPANISH IN SAKARYA

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Foreign Ministry disclosed foreign aid made to Turkey due to quake disaster, it was reported on Tuesday.

    According to the statement, a 60-people team from French Civilian Defense Intervention Union, composed of four specialist doctors, three dog trainers, and six sniffer dogs, are working in Yalova region since August 18. A second 60-people team, which arrived on August 19 together with 15 tonnes of equipment, work in the same region. Also, a four-people experts group, which is experienced on struggle against fire, worked in Tupras Refinery.

    Another team from France composed of a total of 26 rescuers, a representative from important dangers delegation and two sniffer dogs arrived in Turkey together with 6.7 tonnes of equipment. A 40-people health team arrived in Turkey on August 22 with 40 tonnes of aid.

    A ten-people Civilian Defense Team, including person, who is an expert on potable water, came to Turkey to provide logistic support to a health team deployed in Akyazi on August 24.

    Foreign Ministry said a 24-people search and rescue team which came from Malaysia, was assigned in Golcuk. It was also noted that Malaysia decided to donate 100,000 U.S. dollars cash aid.

    The statement said a 19-people special rescue team from Kazakhstan was sent to the region together with urgent medical aid equipment. The statement noted that Kazakh students who are trained in Turkey helped rescue teams and Kazakhstan's Ankara Embassy members donated blood to Red Crescent Blood Center.

    The statement said a search-rescue team, composed of seven personnel and five sniffer dogs, were assigned in Sakarya. Also an 58-people personnel from Spanish Air Forces, together with five rescue-search and two health teams, were sent to Yalova.

    A C-139 plane belonging to Spanish Air Forces, 16-people personnel search- rescue team, three sniffer dogs, four vehicles and aid equipment were sent to Degirmendere region. Also, a fully equipped field hospital together with two C-130 planes and one CN-235 plane sent to Halidere region.

    Foreign Ministry pointed out that United Arab Emirates Red Crescent Association sent tents and blankets on August 19, adding that a C-130 plane, carrying humanitarian aid equipment, will arrive in Turkey between August 27 and 30 and September 3 and 5.

    Also, Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity Organization sent blankets, gloves, masks, garbage bags, and baby milk.

    Meanwhile, the first plane from Poland carrying a 14-people search and rescue team and four sniffer dogs arrived in Turkey on August 18, and a second plane arrived in Turkey on August 19 carrying the equipment of another group composed of seven people.

    Two other planes are expected to arrive in Turkey from Poland, the statement pointed out, adding that the first one will carry 16-people search-rescue team, sniffer dogs, 800-kg equipment, and 2.5 tonnes of medicine.

    Bronislaw Ceremek, Poland's Foreign Minister, said his country allocated 80, 000 U.S. dollars to the victims of the quake from the special fund of his ministry.

    Syria's humanitarian aid sent to Marmara region arrived in two parties on August 22 and 23 in five planes.

    The aid includes 25 tonnes of antibiotics, anelgesics, 25 tonnes of serum, 15 tonnes concentrated baby food, 10,000 blankets and many tents.

    A search and rescue team composed of six people and five sniffer dogs sent by Czech Republic is assigned in Golcuk.

    A total of 80 personnel work in Czech field hospital in Karamursel. There are also 20 beds, four lorries, mobile generators, and mobile kitchens.

    The Swiss Disaster Rescue Unit which arrived in Izmit on August 17 is composed of 12 persons and three sniffer dogs. Again from the same organization 98 people and 18 sniffer dogs arrived on August 18.

    Foreign Ministry statement pointed out that the team coming from Switzerland survived 12 people and found 80 dead bodies. It said the Swiss team brought 204 tents, 1160 body bags, 5,000 masks and 2,000 plastic gloves.

    Federal Humanitarian Aid Organization donated one million Swiss Franc within the framework of urgent aid and will decide for additional aid according to the need assessments.

    Foreign Ministry said Southern Korea government decided to send a health team composed of seven doctors, 10 nurses, pharmacist, and four technical officials. The team will arrive in Istanbul on August 25.

    A rescue team, sent by Korea, which is composed of 17 experts, serve in Golcuk and Degirmendere regions of Kocaeli since August 21.

    Foreign Ministry statement said Denmark sent 17 people and nine sniffer dogs.

    Finland Red Cross donated 45,000 U.S. dollars and Finnish Foreign Ministry donated 90,000 U.S. dollars.

    [07] GAZI UNIVERSITY TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL AID TO STUDENTS WHO FACE QUAKE DISASTER

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - The Gazi University launched efforts to ease the pains of those who faced the damages of the earthquake that shook the Marmara Region last week; it was reported on Wednesday.

    The Gazi University statement said that the Executive Board of the university took decisions to help the quake victims.

    The statement said that the Executive Board decided to provide scholarships, assistance for education and food free of charge to the students who faced the damages of the earthquakes.

    The statement noted that the university will launch aid campaigns to which the public opinion can also join and that those who want to participate in the campaign can deposit money to the account numbered 2000701 in Gazi Branch of the Vakiflar Bankasi; adding that the aid collected in this account will be used to meet the problems of the quake victims including the education, settlement and the structural problems.

    Centers free of charge will be set up in School of Medicine and Faculty of Education of the Gazi University for psychologic and psychiatric problems while center for rehabilitation of the buildings which were damaged in the quake and for the consultancy in the construction of new buildings will be set up in the faculties of engineering, architecture and technical training. Centers free of charge will be set up in the Faculty of Law for the solution of the legal disputes. Everybody can also benefit from these services from the internet.

    The statement stressed that the students who were getting education in the universities of the disaster area can continue their education in the Gazi University under the conditions announced by the Gazi University.

    The statement emphasized that ''Natural Disasters Research and Training Center'' will be set up within the framework of the university and that this center will try to decrease the damages of such disasters.

    Noting that the Gazi University will propose the press organizations that they should broadcast continual training programmes for the disasters, the statement said that Gazi University will make any kind of help for such activities.

    [08] A TOTAL OF 35 FAMILIES FROM DISASTER ZONE SETTLED IN CENTRAL ANATOLIAN KONYA PROVINCE

    KONYA, August 25 (A.A) - A total of 35 families including 120 persons, from the disaster zone were temporarily settled in central Konya province on Wednesday.

    The officials said that the families were settled in a guesthouse in Konya and that 150 more persons are expected to arrive in Konya today; adding that these people will be settled in the houses which are hired by various persons, institutions and organizations.

    Hayrettin Bulan, the Chairman of Sefkat Kapisi (Door of Tenderness) Association in Konya, said that the survivors was settled in various cities, including Konya and that they will settle 8,000 families in the houses of other families living in various parts of Turkey.

    Bulan noted that they will find jobs to the families which want to stay in Konya from now on.

    Bulan said, ''we have classified the families into three groups, including those who want to boost morale, those who want to temporarily stay in Konya and those who want to settle in Konya. Those who want to boost morale will leave Konya a time later. Those who want to stay temporarily in Konya will stay in this city at least for the winter. We want the aid and the support of our people. All the needs of the survivors will be met by our association.''

    Gul Ilgensoy, a woman who came from Adapazari to Konya temporarily with her husband and two children, said that the disaster area should be evacuated.

    Stressing that they have faced a big disaster in the region and that the people living there need accomodation, Ilgensoy noted that they do not have the place to live and the food to eat and requested that the wealthy people should give one of their rooms to the survivors.

    [09] FOLEY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE SPOKESMAN: - ''WE ARE DISCUSSING THE MEDIUM AND LONG TERM MEASURES FOR TURKEY WITH OUR CONGRESS AND ALLIES''

    WASHINGTON D.C., August 25 (A.A) - James Foley, the Spokesman of the U.S. Department of State, said on Wednesday that the U.S. is discussing the measures to be taken in the medium and long term in Turkey with the congress and the allies.

    Speaking to the journalists, Foley noted that the U.S. plans taking measures to support Turkey economically after the quake disaster which hit northwestern Turkey but that there is not a definite decision taken for this issue yet.

    Stressing that his country intensified on the rescue operations until today, Foley stated that the U.S. government is in contact with the Congress and the friendly and ally European countries and other countries about how the effects of this disaster can be overcome in the medium and long term.

    Foley added that they are still thinking and planning the measures and that they have not taken a certain decision yet.

    The observors in Washington D.C. said that the U.S. played an important role in International Monetary Fund's (IMF) and World Bank's granting a total of 445 million U.S. dollar credit to Turkey.

    The observors added that the possible U.S. economic aid to Turkey will be shaped up following the meetings with the Turkish government which will be held in the following weeks.

    [10] PREMIERSHIP CRISIS CENTER STATEMENT: ''ENERGY GIVEN TO ALL TENT SITES SET UP SAKARYA AND YARIMCA''

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Efforts to heal the wounds of victims of the quake which shook Marmara region and aid to this end continue, it was reported on Wednesday.

    A statement of Premiership Crisis Center said brother of a Greek shipowner who donated 100,000 U.S. dollars, and Chairman of Greece's second soccer team Panathinaikos, said they wanted arrange a match with a Turkish team and to donate the returns to the victims of the quake.

    Israel will sent 30 tonnes of medicial and various equipment to Turkey. High ranking Israeli officials will bring the aid to Turkey. Israel also ferried foodstuff aid which will arrive in Iskenderun harbour on August 28, 1999.

    General Directorate of Disaster Affairs transported 20,415 tents, 14,350 blankets and many foodstuff together with 17 trucks. Also 206 personnel were assigned in the region.

    Energy was given to all settlement units, energy transfer line, and distribution transformers. Also, all tent sites set up in Sakarya and Yarimca were given energy. Efforts are under way to give electricity to tent sites in Yalova.

    Damage assessment work and repairment efforts are under way in Tupras Refinery. The waste which leaked to the sea and stopped in barriers are begun to be collected.

    Eight lines are allocated to main region crisis administration center established in Izmit Belsa Plaza.

    Meanwhile, it was reported that no damage could be assessed following the quakes measuring 4.7 and 4.2 which shook Ankara on Tuesday evening at 20:33 and 20:38 local time. The epicenter of the quake was Haymana county of Ankara.

    It was reported that Red Crescent sent 26,894 tents, 73,300 blankets, 26, 000 mobile kitchens, 25,224 kg foodstuff, four mobile hospitals, 98 portable toilets, and 2,000 sleeping bags.

    A total of 9,030 people sheltered in 3,705 tents in Izmit, Degirmendere, Yalova and Golcuk.

    [11] LOGAN, BRITISH AMBASSADOR TO ANKARA, AND BRITISH DELEGATION VISITS GEMICI, STATE MINISTER

    KOCAELI, August 25 (A.A) - David Logan, the British Ambassador to Ankara, and the accompanying British delegation including Bill Alexander, the head of the Thames Water company which constructs the Yuvacik Dam, visited Hasan Gemici, the State minister who is in Kocaeli, on Wednesday.

    Gemici said that solidarity was experienced due to the quake which hit the Marmara region and thanked for all the foreign supports and aid and that this support and aid makes everybody pleased.

    Emphasizing that the fire in the Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corp. (TUPRAS) was put out and that they were relieved by having potable water in the north coast from the beginning, Gemici noted that Golcuk and Degirmendere region faces some problems at the moment and that if the water problem is not solved in the shortest time, there would be a bigger disaster than the quake disaster.

    Stressing that 40,000 people were left homeless and that he thinks that this number will increase, Gemici stated that they do not know the number of people who are outside their homes at the moment.

    Noting that the people whose houses were not damaged by the quake stayed in streets due to the aftershocks and fear of a new quake, Gemici stressed that they are trying to serve 600,000 people in the region.

    Emphasizing that the accomodation problem occured as the weather conditions got worse, Gemici said that settling these people is the biggest problem that the government faces.

    Bill Alexander said that they filled clean water to the reservoirs of the region and that 15 British engineers are repairing the local distribution network.

    Stating that they are trying to give water to Golcuk, Alexander emphasized that they increased the amount of chlorine in the water and they are trying their best to give water to the region.

    [12] A TOTAL OF 545 PEOPLE, INCLUDING ONE VICE ADMIRAL, 27 OFFICERS, 120 NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS, SIX EXPERT SOLDIERS, 77 SOLDIERS, TWO MILITARY STUDENTS DIED IN QUAKE - 96 TSK MEMBERS STILL UNDER DEBRIS

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Many Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) personnel and many people from their families lost their lives in the quake which struck Marmara province. The TSK members include one Vice Admiral, 27 officers, 120 non-commissioned officers, six expert soldiers, 77 soldiers, and two military students.

    General Staff press center said TSK units who were assigned to meet the needs of citizens and heal the wounds of victims of quake which had shaken Marmara region on August 17, carry out their efforts.

    The statement disclosed the loses of TSK as:

    A total of 27 officers (one vice admiral), six expert soldiers, 77 soldiers, two military students, 11 civilian officials, 69 workers, 233 people from families of military.

    Also, 36 officers, 75 non-commissioned officers, 18 expert soldiers, 109 soldiers, one military student, 27 civil servants, 14 workers, 150 people from the families of military were wounded in the quake.

    There are three officers, nine non-commissioned officers, one expert soldier, 12 soldiers, two civilian officials, and 69 people from families of military are still under the debris.

    [13] U.S. TO SEND THREE MORE WARSHIPS TO TURKEY

    WASHINGTON D.C., August 25 (A.A) - The U.S. Naval Forces will send three more warships to Turkey to meet the potable water needs of the disaster area; it was reported on Wednesday.

    James Foley, the U.S. Department of State, said that three U.S. ships arrived in Turkey and that three more ships will go to Turkey.

    The U.S. said that three ships which can produce 350,000 litres of clean water from sea water a day, will arrive in the Marmara Sea in two days and will start carrying out efforts.

    The International Development Council which coordinates the aids of the U.S. government to Turkey following the quake, said that the cost of the aid which Washington D.C. sent to Turkey exceeded 8.5 million U.S. dollars and that this amount does not include the costs of the planes and the rescue teams.

    Meanwhile, the Fairfax aid team which rescued four persons alive under the rubble returned arrived in Washington D.C and was welcomed by the officials including Baki Ilkin, Turkish Ambassador to Washington D.C.

    Ilkin said that Turkey is grateful to the U.S. for the support she gave to Turkey after the quake disaster.

    Ilkin said, ''we thank U.S. President Bill Clinton who makes statements, the U.S. administration, the U.S. people and this recue team for being beside Turkey in the hardest times.''

    [14] FOREIGN AID TO DISASTER AREA

    ANKARA, Aug 25 (A.A) - Several foreign countries' aid, and messages offering their condolences after the massive earthquake that devastated the Marmara region early on August 17, continue.

    The Georgian Embassy in Ankara issued a statement on Wednesday saying that the Embassy staff donated their three-day incomes to the victims of the quake.

    Meanwhile, the Czech Republic's Embassy said two planes carrying medical equipment, and humanitarin aid are expected to arrive in Istanbul the same day. Recalling that the Czech Republic earlier sent a plane carrying similar aid to Turkey, the statement said each of the two planes, which will arrive in Turkey today, is carrying 5 thousand kg of medical equipment.

    The Iraqi Press Union sent a message of condolences, expressing its deep grief, and sorrow over the deaths and the injured.

    ''On behalf of Uday Saddam Hussein, the Chairman, and all Iraqi journalists, we offer our condolences to the Turkish nation, and our Turkish counterparts,'' the Iraqi Press Union said.

    [15] MAYOR OF ATHENS AVRAMOPOULOS ARRIVES IN ISTANBUL

    ISTANBUL, August 25 (A.A) - Dimitris Avramopoulos, Mayor of the Greek capital Athens, came to Istanbul on Wednesday to visit the regions struck by the quake, and to hold contacts regarding the aid which will be donated by five big municipalities in Greece.

    Avramopoulos met with Ali Mufit Gurtuna, Mayor of Greater City of Istanbul; Mustafa Degirmenci, Mayor of Avcilar district, and Fotis Ksidas, Head Consul of Istanbul, at Ataturk Airport.

    The Mayor of Athens said there was a very high participation to aid campaigns by Greek people, and emotions ran high among them, adding their efforts would fall short to propose a solution to very big problems, but they can ease people's pains to some extent.

    ''I hope this will be a step to bring together Greek and Turkish people. The ditches formed by the quake could turn to a passage way between two nations,'' he stated.

    Gurtuna thanked Avramopoulos for being with them during this difficult time, and also said he wished this incident would bring closer both the rulers, and people of Turkey and Greece.

    The Mayor of Athens visited Istanbul's Avcilar district with Degirmenci, and made observations. Avramopoulos stressed that buildings which do not have an official certificate of earthquake resistance in Athens are not given licence.

    [16] HALONEN, FINNISH FOREIGN MINISTER, AND VAN DEN BROEK, MEMBER OF EUROPEAN COMMISSION, DUE IN TURKEY

    BRUSSELS, August 25 (A.A) - Tarja Halonen, Foreign Minister of Finland, the term president of the European Union (EU), and Hans van den Broek, member of the European Commission, will come to Turkey later on Wednesday for a one-day visit.

    Sources at the EU said that Halonen, and van den Broek are scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, Ismail Cem, Foreign Minister, and other high-level officials to receive information about the last week's devastating earthquake disaster.

    The EU stated that it will make statements about its urgent humanitain aid, and its action plan regarded with the re-construction in Turkey following the contacts of Halonen, and van den Broek.

    Halonen, and van den Broek are expected to leave Turkey on Thursday night after making observations in Istanbul and Izmit, epicenter of the massive earthquake.

    [17] STATEMENT OF PARRIS, THE U.S. AMBASSADOR TO TURKEY, TO PBS TELEVISION CHANNEL: - ''THIS WAS PROBABLY THE WORST EARTHQUAKE IN THE HISTORY OF EUROPE IN THIS CENTURY. - ''IT IS HARD TO SUGGEST THAT ANY GOVERNMENT WOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE IN FLAWLESS MANNER TO MEET ALL OF THE NEEDS REQUIRED AS EFFICIENTY ANYONE WOULD LIKE''

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Mark Parris, the U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, said on Wednesday that the massive earthquake which hit Marmara region last week, was probably the worst disaster causing the largest number of casualties in the history of Europe in the 20th century, adding, ''it is hard to suggest that any government would have been able in flawless manner to meet all of the needs required as efficienty anyone would like.''

    In an interview with the U.S. PBS television channel, Parris recalled that communiciation between the affected areas, and the rest of the world was cut off for 36 hours, stressing, ''this was probably the worst earthquake in the history of Europe in this century. It is hard to suggest that any government would have been able in flawless manner to meet all of the needs required as efficienty anyone would like.''

    Responding to a question about his evaluation over the criticism towards government for not being prepared for this in any way, and for lack of coordination, Parris said, ''there are a lot of people without homes, without electricity, without ability to communicate, looking for potable water. And naturally, they are frustrated. They are angry, and they want to know when this situation is going to stop. That is a perfecty human reaction. I think, the fact of the matter is if you see the devastation on the spot that has been brought by this quake, and you appreciate that this area was essentialy cut off entirely from any communication, surface, phone, or any other, for 36 hours after the quake took place.''

    Recalling that the New York Times had described the government as the most successful Turkish government in a decade a week and a half ago, Parris added, ''I think one must also understand that this is a government that has been in office since June. It was a government that established over the course of the summer a very positive reputation here, and internationally for the very decisive measures that it had begun to take, moving economic reforms, democratization reforms, a very impressive, necassary agenda through the Turkish parliament to the point. The causes of the enormous destruction to the extent that they are a function of poor construction, of inadequate inspections. These are problems that have been going on here for years. So I think, as a practical matter, it will be difficult to put the blame for the extent of the damage itself on the government, which has moved with increasing effectiveness over the past several days to get a grip on the problem, and to move ahead.'' Parris added, ''the priority in the days immediately after the quake was to stabilize, and to provide immediate medical attention to those in greatest need. As they worked their way through that problem, their focus has shifted to meeting the longer-term needs of the survivers, providing shelter, ensuring that they have adequate drinking water, restoring communications, electricity those kinds of things.''

    When asked, ''how much progress is the government making on restoring basic water, and sanitation or beginning to cope with the housing problem?'', Parris noted, ''I was in Istanbul when it occured, and drove back to Ankara for a meeting that I had to attend in the early hours immediately afterwards. Infrastructure has just been shattered by the quake. Roads were closed, there was no communication, and everything that they found out since, has reinforced the reality that the damage is very severe, very extensive.''

    Stressing that it will take some time to get permanent infrastructure back in shape, Parris said that the government has established a crisis management center, which has been working closely with the United Nations (U.N.), as well as with international comminuty to try to begin to get the material, the expertise necessary to meet housing, to meet sanitation, to meet water needs, and that process is going forward to with increasing effectiveness and coherence as we move through it.

    Responding to a question about the U.S.' efforts, Paris reminded that the U.S. aircraft carrier namely Kearsarge along with two other ships have arrived in the Gulf of Izmit in the vicinity of the quake.

    Parris said, ''this flotilla brings an enormous capacity to help the system, and the rescue efforts. They have a large number of helicopters, including those with a substantial lift capability. They have landed craft that can move goods, and personnel to sites that are currently inaccessible by sea because of damage to docking and other facilities. The Kearsarge and its commanders have spent the day talking to senior Turkish military interlocutors about how they can best sort out the assets that they bring, how they can best to deployed to move equipment, to move tents, to move water purification equipment, to assist the efforts that the Turks themselves are making in those areas.''

    When asked about the coordination of the international assistance, Parris said that there are a civilian component, and a military component, and both obviously are important.

    Parris said, ''the Turkish military component was initially suffering from the fact that their largest military asset in the region, the Golcuk Naval Base, which normally would have responsibility for taking charge in these kinds of operations, was hit very hard, and it was among the hardest hit locations during the quake. It has taken them some time to sort through that, and to develop a plan and put it into action. But we see every day, evidence that they are moving through that, and are working with increasing effectivenes.''

    Parris also added, ''on the civilian side, we have established good working liaison relationships with Turkish health and other facilities on the scene. Our consulate general in Istanbul has a permament presence in the area hit by the quake. People have been working very hard in some cases going without sleep or sleeping in cars on the scene to assist with that effort. And obviously you do not set up this kind of mechanism in a day. But over the course of the past week there has been real progress, both on the civilian and on the military side in terms of communication, coordination.''

    [18] CALL OF OCALAN, HEAD OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION - ILLEGAL KSP, SENDS AN ANNOUNCEMENT TO SEVERAL PRESS-INFORMATION ORGANS, SAYING CALL OF OCALAN MEANS ''COLLAPSE OF PKK''

    ANKARA-BONN, August 25 (A.A) - Illegal Kurdistan Socialist Party (KSP), in an announcement which it sent to several mass-media organizations in Germany, said that call of Abdullah Ocalan, the head of the terrorist PKK organization, for ''giving up armed struggle and withdrawing from Turkish territories'' means the ''collapse of the PKK'', it was reported on Wednesday.

    The statement, which was issued by Kemal Burkay, the head of the illegal KSP, claimed that the complete adoption of Ocalan's call with an announcement by the so-called ''chairmanship council'' and its definition as a ''turning point'' meant ''the declaration of tragic end of the oppression and violence policies that have been followed by the terrorist organization up until now.''

    Noting that the illegal KSP's warnings years ago to the terrorist organization were right, the statement defended that ''the PKK has gradually lost its armed activity power, and it couldn't find a place to hide even its head (Abdullah Ocalan), and couldn't prevent his apprehension. Finally, it was obliged to announce that it gave up armed struggle without a simple reconciliation by declaring its failure. This situation meant the tragic end of the oppression and violence policies that the PKK has followed up until now.''

    Pointing out that Ocalan's call for ''giving up armed struggle'' was not sincere, the statement said, ''the real reasons which forced Ocalan to make such a call, can be discussed by taking into consideration the situation he is in. If Ocalan had made this call under free conditions before he was captured, then nobody could have claimed that Ocalan made that call with the pressure of the Turkish State or fear of death. Where will the PKK withdraw its armed forces? To Northern Iraq? Will it continue its war against the KSP? We expect the PKK to given and en to its armed struggle which is also against the Kurds.''

    [19] FM CEM ADDRESSES TO AL KABAS: - ''THAT SYRIA IS GETTING CLOSER TO TURKEY, HAS INCREASED INTERNATIONAL ESTEEM OF THIS COUNTRY'' - ''DIALOGUE WITH GREECE HAS GONE WELL UNTIL NOW''

    ANKARA, Aug 25 (A.A) - Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister, said on Wednesday that Syria's getting closer to Turkey increased this country's esteem in international platform. Cem stated that the dialogue with Greece has also gone well until now.

    Addressing the Al Kabbas daily, which is published in Kuwait and distributed to all Arab countries, Foreign Minister Cem recalled that there are some problems with Syria, and a way and method, which function very well, were determined to remove those problems.

    Noting that the understanding of the joint struggle against terrorism, which was reached with Syria and Iran, should be supported by concrete results, Cem said otherwise, more unpleasant results may occur.

    Evaluating the point reached in the relations with Greece, Cem said, ''the dialogue has gone very well until now. I don't see any reason to prevent this process. I hope this process will continue, and all of the problems between Turkey and Greece will be solved through negotiation.''

    Stressing that a solution except confederation on Cyprus won't be realistic, Cem said twelve of the European Union (EU) countries support Turkey's full- membership, and he hopes other three union members will change their mind.

    Evaluating the situation in Northern Iraq, Cem stated that Iraq's political and territorial integrity is an important concept, adding, ''if this concept is played or the limit is exceeded, very serious troubles will occur.''

    Pointing out that they were able to explain the relations between Turkey and Israel to Arab countries, the Foreign Minister said they now receive more realistic approach from Arab countries towards the issue. Emphasizing that Turkey's esteem in the Middle East and Arab world is rapidly increasing, Cem said this positive development also strengthened the relations between Turkey and the EU.

    The newspaper also published Ismail Cem's biography under the title of ''Turkey's cheerful diplomacy''. Noting that Cem's personality and gentle style was reflected very well in Turkey's foreign affairs, the daily said Cem made great contributions to the development of the relations between Turkey and Arab countries.

    The newspaper added that the similar situation was also valid for Hikmet Cetin, a former Foreign Minister, and Turgut Ozal, the former President.

    [20] EUROPEAN UNION TO CREATE ACTION PLAN FOR TURKEY

    BRUSSELS, August 25 (A.A) - European Union (EU) Commission announced on Wednesday that they would continue the 2 million Euros donation it allocated last year and also find additional help for the quake struck Turkey. The Commission said they prepared an action plan to help Turkey.

    EU Commission spokesmen who answered journalists' questions noted that Hans van den Broek who is in charge of foreign relations, would return on Thursday.

    EU Commission first provided 2 million Euros rapidly and it will give additional support from its budget this week, probably on Thursday, they stated.

    EU spokesmen reminded that their contacts with the related ministers of member countries continued in political and coordination fields. They are discussing what and how much could be done to help Turkey with the reconstruction of disaster areas. EU's approach in this field will gain certainty at the unofficial foreign ministers meeting on September 4 and 5 in Finland.

    When a journalist asked if a single member county could block the action plan prepared for Turkey, the EU spokesmen said they could not yet give detailed information regarding EU's approach to quake disaster.

    Coordination works continue and the target is to give the fastest and most effective aid, they pointed out and said they would be able to give more detailed information once they had contacts with the Turkish President and Foreign Minister.

    [21] AID CAMPAIGNS IN TRNC

    LEFKOSA, August 25 (A.A) - An aid check worth of 100 billion Turkish Liras (TL) which was collected in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) was given to Ertugrul Apakan, Turkish Ambassador in Lefkosa by TRNC Prime Minister Dervis Eroglu on Wednesday. Eroglu said aid campaigns would continue in TRNC. ''Turkish Cypriots are trying their best to heal the wounds of the quake,'' he added.

    TRNC sent medicine, serum and other materials to the disaster area, the TRNC Prime Minister reminded and stated that they started new campaigns because the needs changed in disaster areas.

    Eroglu said he called Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit on the phone to tell him Turkish Cypriots were ready to do their share to help quake survivors.

    All segments of TRNC society and the TRNC government showed great sensitivity and proved that they were hand in hand with Turkey, Turkish Ambassador Apakan said and thanked Turkish Cypriots.

    Demirbank TRNC Branch opened an account for those who want to make cash donations. Donations are accepted in Turkish Liras, Sterlings, U.S. dollars and German Marks.

    Girne American University (GAU) decided not to take any fees from Turkish students who live in the disaster area and who will register at GAU after 1999 university exam results. The students will not pay any fees for five years including one year of Preparation Programme.

    [22] FISCHER, FM OF GERMANY: ''THE EU HAS TO BE GENEROUS IN ITS AID TO TURKEY''

    BERLIN, Aug 25 (A.A) - Joschka Fischer, the Foreign Minister of Germany, called on the European Union (EU) member countries to be generous in their financial aid to Turkey, it was reported on Wednesday.

    Fischer sent a letter to the President of Finland, the term president of the EU, requesting to set free the 375 million Euro credit, which will be given from the EU budget, and the 750 million Euro loan, which will be given by the European Development Bank for Turkey.

    Fischer stressed that this is the right of Turkey stemming from the customs union.

    Andreas Michaelis, the Spokesman of the German Foreign Ministry, said he issue will be discussed at the meeting of EU Foreign Ministers between September 4 and 5.

    ''Every demand and requirement of Turkey has been met on time. Minister Fischer and the Foreign Ministry have been in a countinous contact with the Turkish government,'' the Spokesman said.

    Refusing the criticisms, the Spokesman said rescue and extinguishing efforts were carried out with the 5 million German Marks financial aid, more than 200 crew arrived in the area, and remedy, tents, and several aid equipment were sent.

    [23] AUSTRALIAN RADIO CHANNEL COLLECTS MORE THAN ONE MILLION US DOLLARS FOR QUAKE VICTIMS

    SYDNEY, August 25 (A.A) - Donations sent to the aid campaign started by the Turkish service of Australia's official broadcast institution, SBS, rose beyond one million US dollars, it was reported on Wednesday.

    The aid campaing of SBS's Turkish service which has one hour long broadcast in Turkish everyday was participated by Turks who live in Australia as well as Australians. The four day long campaign did not slow down even on its fourth day and people waited on line to make donations even after the programme.

    In the meantime, it was announced that the concert income of Group Lacin, will be donated to quake victims after the costs are deducted.

    Donations also continue to come to the Australian Embassy in Turkey. Australian Red Cross organization and UNICEF's Australia branch also started a campaign and assigned a 1-800 line to get donations on the phone.

    [24] U.S. HBO TV CHANNEL TO BROADCAST MIDNIGHT EXPRESS AGAIN

    CHICAGO, August 25 (A.A) - The cable free U.S. television channel, HBO decided to broadcast ''Midnight Express'' again, it was reported on Wednesday. HBO is a subordinate firm of Time Warner which makes millions of dollars from Turkish movie-goers and has a representative bureau in Turkey.

    Turkish institutions in the U.S. warned Turks who use Internet and asked them to protest the channel via Internet. Representatives of the Turkish community in Chicago reminded that HBO broadcast Midnight Express several times in 1999 and stated that they were broadcasting it again at a time when Turkey drew the world's attention because of the quake disaster. Anti- Turkish forces could have had an influence on Time Warner, it was also noted.

    ''Americans who have been watching the quake disaster on tv crying, will watch Midnight Express which was produced to degrade Turkey and Turkish people. Time Warner has been used as a tool by circles who felt uncomfortable after Turkey drew the world's attention,'' a Turkish authority stated in Chicago.

    [25] UNICEF CONTINUES TO SEND HUMANITARIAN AID TO TURKEY

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - As the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) continues to send medical supplies to the hospitals in the worst affected areas, three teams including experts, are preparing an action plan in accordance with the urgent needs of quake victims, it was reported on Wednesday.

    Releasing a written statement, the UNICEF said that they have sent 100 basic aid kits, 25 urgent aid kits, 5 generators, 2,644 tent-grounds, 20 thousand water containers, water purifying tablets, 160 antiseptic sprays, 50 mobile water tanks, and 10 thousand water containers since August 19.

    The aid has been distributed to the hospitals and health centers in Yalova, Kocaeli, Golcuk and Sakarya.

    Meanwhile, the UNICEF has sent 100 portable toilets, and ten more generators to the disaster area.

    Officials at the UNICEF said that more tent-grounds due to bad weather conditions in the affected areas.

    Meanwhile, three teams including experts of health, education, sanitation, nutrition and psychology, made observations in the disaster area to determine the urgent needs.

    [26] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ATTENDS CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER'S MEETING (1) - ''OUR BIGGEST INSUFFICIENCY WAS THE LACK OF WELL TRAINED RESCUE TEAMS''

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on Wednesday that the quake disaster made it clear that the inspection of constructions were not taken seriously by authorities, and added that new measures would be taken in this field.

    Ecevit attended the meeting of Crisis Management Center at National Security Council's building on Wednesday afternoon.

    Opening of agricultural areas to residence, and industry have worsened the quake's effect, Ecevit told reporters prior to the meeting.

    The Prime Minister reminded that the buildings which were erected according to the safety standarts resisted the quake.

    He stressed that solid and more effective measures should be taken to inspect constructions. All constructions must be insured, he said.

    Ecevit also pointed out that the biggest insufficiency was the lack of well trained rescue teams, and said schools must give lessons in this field.

    The government must take tight security measures in disaster areas, Ecevit also said.

    The saddest thing was to see that many services stopped in the first days of the disaster. Communication and transportation systems must be formed strong enough to survive even such big disaster, the Prime Minister concluded.

    [27] TURKMENISTAN TO DISPATCH MEDICINE AND MEDICAL SUPPLIES

    ASHKHABAD, August 25 (A.A) - Turkmenistan will dispatch medicine and medical supplies to the victims of the last week's massive quake disaster, it was reported on Wednesday.

    Oktay Ozuye, Turkish Ambassador to Turkmenistan, said that the aid package of Turkmen Health Ministry, will be sent to Turkey tomorrow.

    Stressing that Turkmenistan was the first country that take action to heal earthquake victims' wounds, Ozuye noted that Boris Shihmuradov, Turkmen Foreign Minister, had called him just after the earthquake, and expressed deep sorrow.

    Ozuye recalled that President Saparmurat Turkmenbasi of Turkmenistan sent a message of condolonces to President Suleyman Demirel.

    Stressing that Turkmen people who had also suffered from similar disasters in their history, Ozuye also added that Turkmenistan shares Turkey's grief.

    [28] U.S-CYPRUS - ERTUGRULOGLU, FOREIGN AND DEFENSE MINISTER OF TRNC, CRITICIZES U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON'S REPORT ON CYPRUS: - ''CONFEDERATION IS THE ONLY FORMULA OF COMPROMISE'' - ''THE U.S. HAS TO FOLLOW A NEW AND REALISTIC APPROACH INSTEAD OF STEREOTYPED APPROACHES''

    LEFKOSA, August 25 (A.A) - Tahsin Ertugruloglu, the Foreign and Defense Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), said on Wednesday that U.S. President Bill Clinton, in his report on Cyprus on August 19 which covers the April-May 1999 period, repeated a basic mistake that took place in his other reports.

    Issuing a written statement, Ertugruloglu said that Clinton, in his report, talks about positions like ''Cypriot President'' and ''Cypriot Foreign Minister'' which do not exist in reality, stressing that such posts and presences lost their validity when the Greek Cypriots destroyed the bi- communal Cyprus Republic which was founded by 1960 Agreements.

    Emphasizing that the positions and persons mentioned in the report are the persons and organizations representing only the Greek Cypriot administration, Ertugruloglu said that those do not have any connection with the Turkish Cypriot organizations and nation who founded their own state and appointed their own authorities with democratic ways.

    Ertugruloglu stressed that calling the leader of the Greek Cypriot side as if he were the ''President of Cyprus'' and considering the Greek Cypriot organizations as if they were the organizations of whole Cyprus, was an attitude contrary to the realities on Cyprus and to the equality of the sides.

    Pointing out that the ''bi-communal, bi-zonal federation'' formula, that is mentioned in the report, completely lost its validity in today's conditions, Ertugruloglu said, ''now, the only formula of compromise, on which negotiations can be held, is the confederation proposal we put forward on August 31, 1998. The people, who want a permanent compromise on Cyprus, have to evaluate well this realistic formula instead of the formulas, which lost their validity, and have to persuade the Greek Cypriot side to accept the constructive confederation formula which can be the last opportunity for compromise. Expecting this from these people is our right.''

    ''We invite the U.S. government, which is claimed to have undertaken the leadership of the whole world and the defense of human rights, to help with the initiatives to bring the TRNC into an equal basis in international platform by following a realistic and new approach instead of stereotyped approaches. This is the reality of a realistic compromise and permanent peace on Cyprus,'' he added.

    [29] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ATTENDS CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER'S MEETING - ''IT'S UNDERSTOOD THAT CONSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT CONTROLLED WELL AND THIS ISSUE IS NOT TAKEN SERIOUSLY''

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on Wednesday that it was understood after the last earthquake distaster that constructions were not controlled well and this issue was not taken seriously, adding ''more serious and deterrent measures have to be taken.''

    The Crisis Management Center convened the same day under the leadership of Bulent Ecevit at National Security Council (NSC) building.

    Addressing the opening of the meeting, Bulent Ecevit stated that the massive earthquake which hit Turkey last week, necessitates overcoming some deficiencies, mistakes in Turkey as soon as possible, adding ''the physical planning of crowded settlement units and industrial and economic centres carries great importance. Adapazarı, which was seriously devastated by the quake, is a city founded upon soft foundation, its bottom is water in great extent. Unfortunately important lands for agriculture have been allocated to some settlement areas and industry. This causes problems and increases the effects of the quakes. It is observed that strong buildings which were constructed in line with principles were able to resist the effects of a massive earthquake having a magnitude of 7.4 without being damaged. However buildings which were jerry-built claimed the lives of many people.''

    Prime Minister Ecevit said that ''it is also clear after the massive earthquake that municipalities have to be controlled by the central authority regarding the supervision of constructions.''

    ''We must supervise construction of buildings by adopting very serious rules. In every construction there has to be the condition of insurance. Then insurance firms will attribute importance to usage of materials used in constructions due to their own interests. All constructions must be insured. Those buildings which were not severely damaged by the quake can be used again after security controls. We have to determine them urgently. Our biggest insufficiency is the lack of well trained rescue teams, the Civilian Defense Organization has a great role to play in this regard,'' said Ecevit.

    Noting that the useful services of the foreign rescue teams are known, Ecevit said that the Turkish nation has the tendency to generously help those people suffering from the quake.

    ''In my opinion students of secondary school and universities must be trained regarding the methods of rescue,'' said Ecevit, adding that the aids sent by the nation to the regions hit by the quake can't be properly distributed.

    ''I think the distribution of aids should be carried out by following a plan,'' he added.

    [30] KHARRAZI, IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: ''WE ARE READY TO SEND HUMANITARIAN AID TO TURKEY''

    TEHERAN, August 25 (A.A) - Kemal Kharrazi, the Iranian Foreign Minister said on Wednesday that his country is ready to send humanitarian aid to Turkey, which was hit by the earthquake.

    Kharrazi expressed the condolences of Iranian nation and government to Turan Moralı, the new Turkish Ambassador to Iran, who submitted Kharrazi one copy of his letter of credentials.

    Noting that Iran and Turkey have common interests, but there are some problems in bilateral relations, Kharrazi pointed out that ''the two countries must be resolved to solve these problems by reciprocal understanding and permit the common border to be the border of peace and friendship.''

    Moralı thanked in his part to Iran for its aid sent to Turkey saying that this aid will contribute to solving problems of earthquake victims.

    Stressing that the Turkish government is resolved to maintain and improve its friendly relations with Iran, Moralı added that Turkey is ready to solve its short-term problems with Iran.

    Iran, which had earlier sent 5,000 blankets and 500 big tents for groups to Turkey, will send on Thursday morning another plane carrying 10,000 can food, 10 tonnes of rice, 10 tonnes of medicine, 500 plates and 1000 blankets.

    [31] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ATTENDS CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER'S MEETING - ECEVIT: ''A MORE EFFECTIVE COORDINATION IS NEEDED AMONG CONCERNED PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS''

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on Wednesday that the earthquake disaster made it clear that a more effective cordination is necessary among concerned public institutions at the local and general level.

    Ecevit stated that 50,000-60,000 prefabricated buildings have to be constructed as soon as possible to provide temporary housing for earthquake victims.

    Ecevit said before the Prime Ministry Crisis Management Centre meeting that their first measure of helping earthquake vicitms was to provide them with tents.

    Noting that tent cities were founded, Premier Ecevit pointed out that ''the state has to take very strict measures to make tent cities be more attractive for our citizens with no home.''

    Premier Ecevit stressed that all public institutions have been mobilized and the health personnel works very hard in the area devastated by the quake, adding industrial institutions were not damaged badly by the quake and they can start working.

    ''The state has to compensate for the losses of small tradesmen whose business places collapsed, for a certain time. The worst side of the quake disaster was the cease of many services particularly for the first two days following the quake. As it is known, telephone lines of Yalova, Kocaeli and Sakarya were cut off for the first two days,'' said Ecevit.

    ''We have to take the necessary technical measures to make telephone lines and highways work even in limited extent in such periods of disasters,'' said Ecevit, adding that foreign countries sent big amount of aids to Turkey.

    ''A total of 61 countries and many international institutions sent aid to us. This is a pleasing development which also shows Turkey's respect in the world,'' said Premier Ecevit, adding 50,000-60,000 prefabricated houses have to be built at least within one-two months.

    ''Finally the permanent settlement units must be re-constructed within 1-1, 5 years at the latest,'' said Ecevit, adding the land structure of Turkey has to be examined well.

    ''Media should act in a responsible way regarding the quake disaster,'' said Ecevit, stressing that informing citizens in a correct way is very important.

    [32] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''DIFFERENT IDEAS AND PROPOSALS ABOUT QUAKE TAX CAN BE PUT FORWARD, WE WILL EVALUATE THEM ALL''

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on Wednesday about the quake tax, planned to be applied, that different ideas and proposals can be put forward, adding ''we'll evaluate them all.''

    ''It is reported that Istanbul Technical University (ITU) submitted a report to you noting that majority of buildings in Istanbul are jerry-built and the university requests the goverment to make a new regulation,'' told journalists to Ecevit after the Prime Ministry Crisis Management Center meeting, who said ''a delegation headed by ITU Rector visited me about the new regulations. They informed me in details. We work together with them.''

    ''It is not that easy to demolish the existing buildings in Istanbul and build new ones. However inspection of the existing ones, speeding up sanctions about the ones which were illegally constructed and inspecting the others which will be built, should be carried out in an effective way. The insurance system carries importance. If constructions are insured, insurance firms will attribute importance to usage of materials in constructions and their quality due to their own interests,'' Ecevit added.

    ''Today's newspapers reported that the Director General of Red Crescent stays in private hotels by using the money of the organization. Do you think of making an investigation?'' asked journalists to Ecevit who said ''I saw it in one newspaper, I don't know anything about the issue. At this stage I can't make any comments.''

    [33] FOREIGN MINISTER CEM RETURNS TO TURKEY FROM KUWAIT - CEM: ''TURKEY WILL BENEFIT FROM KUWAITI FUND FOR INFRASTRUCTURAL WORK''

    ANKARA, August 25 (A.A) - Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister said on Wednesday after returning from Kuwait that Turkey will benefit from Kuwaiti Fund for infrastructural work.

    Responding to questions of journalists at Esenboga Airport, Cem said that he was sorry when he was going to Kuwait due to the massive earthquake that hit Turkey last week, but he made useful meetings there in respect of development of bilateral relations between the two countries and Turkish- Arab countries' relations.

    Cem said that he met with Kuwaiti Foreign and Defense Ministers and visited Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Jabir al-Ahmad al-Jabir as-Sabbah, adding he observed an extraordinary sensitivity in Kuwait towards Turkey due to the quake disaster.

    ''I suppose Turkey will benefit from Kuwaiti Fund in infrastructural work, '' said Cem, pointing out that Foreign Ministry officials who accompanied him in his visit met with the Kuwaiti Fund officials one by one and they will inform the concerned ministry about their meetings. Cem said that this fund will have a share in Turkey's borrowing long-term loans.

    Cem stressed that Kuwait will continue to give aid to Turkey, adding the aid planned to be taken from the Kuwaiti Fund will be given in return to projects.

    Cem said he can't give information about the content of President Suleyman Demirel's message to Kuwaiti Emir as it was written.

    [34] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT ADDRESSES TO FRENCH LE NOUVEL OBSERVATEUR NEWSPAPER: ''FINDING THOSE WHO ARE RESPONSIBLE IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE'' - ''I SUPPOSE DURMUS, HEALTH MINISTER USED A WRONG EXPRESSION''

    PARIS, August 25 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on Wednesday regarding the massive earthquake that devastated Turkey that contractors had mistakes and finding those who are responsible is almost impossible.

    Addressing to Le Nouvel Observateur newspaper, which will be published in the edition of the newspaper on Thursday, Ecevit said that the criticisms of the people saying that the government and the army were ineffective regarding the major earthquake that hit Turkey were unfair.

    ''Telephone lines and transportation were cut off for 48 hours. Only helicopters reached the regions devastated by the quake. This made television channels broadcast, but ambulances and winches couldn't enter the region,'' Ecevit said.

    Referring to the statements of Osman Durmus, the Health Minister about foreign expert teams, Bulent Ecevit said that ''I suppose he used a wrong expression. These words don't reflect what we think.''

    Noting that not taking into consideration the geological data in constructing buildings and insufficient inspection of buildings mean one does not predict the future, Ecevit said that not only contractors, but also those who inspect buildings have to be controlled.

    Stressing that they decided to pass a law which will urge contractors to give guarantees in construction work, Ecevit said insurance firms will also inspect the strength of the buildings.

    Responding to a question of the newspaper about ''giving cultural autonomy to Kurds'' Ecevit said he is opposed to that as this will lead to separation of Turkey. Noting that people talk about cultural autonomy, but everybody knows very well that independence is wanted, Ecevit said Turkey broke into pieces after the First World War and a new intervention with the integrity of the country can never be accepted.

    Ecevit didn't respond to another question asking whether or not his party and himself opposes to death sentence given to Abdullah Ocalan, the head of the terrorist organization PKK by the State Security Court in Ankara by saying that the case still continues.

    Premier Ecevit recalled that the government submitted the proposal about repentance law to the parliament and the proposal foresees general or partial amnesty to those members of terrorist organization who will surrender on condition that they didn't participate in armed activities.

    ''Will Kurds have newspapers, television channels and schools?'' was another question asked to Premier Ecevit who said there is no restriction in books and newspapers in Turkey. ''As in France, there are republican schools of the Turkish Republic which gives education in the language of the Republic,'' Ecevit added.

    [35] TURKISH AMBASSADOR TO AZERBAIJAN: ''AZERBAJANI RESCUE TEAM PULLED ALIVE MORE THAN 40 PERSONS FROM DEBRIS''

    BAKU, August 25 (A.A) - Kardi Ecvet Tezcan, the Turkish Ambassador to Azerbaijan said on Wednesday that the Azerbaijani rescue team pulled alive more than 40 persons from debris caused by the massive earthquake that hit Marmara region of Turkey last week.

    Addressing a press briefing, Tezcan stated that the Azerbaijani rescue team was one of the foreign teams which arrived early in the area devastated by the massive earthquake, adding it carried out very successful operations in Izmit and Sakarya provinces.

    Noting that the Azerbaijani fire brigades team contributed significantly to the fight with the fire in Turkish Petrouleum Refineries Corp. (TUPRAS) refinery in Izmit, Tezcan said the cargo plane carrying aids and tents was sent by the Azerbaijani Execution Presidency in Baku to Turkey the same day.

    Stressing that he made a phone call with Haydar Aliyev, the Azerbaijani President after six hours following the massive earthquake on August 17, Tezcan thanked to the Azerbaijani nation for their help.

    A.A


    Anadolu Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article
    Back to Top
    Copyright © 1995-2023 HR-Net (Hellenic Resources Network). An HRI Project.
    All Rights Reserved.

    HTML by the HR-Net Group / Hellenic Resources Institute, Inc.
    anadolu2html v1.01 run on Thursday, 16 September 1999 - 8:39:21 UTC